Conquer Housework: 6 Tips to Beat Procrastination and Tackle Clutter

Pushing housework aside is a common issue, but neglecting it often makes chores feel even more overwhelming.

No need to worry; we've gathered insights from experts to help you kickstart your cleaning routine. Whether it's taking small steps or seeking accountability, these strategies will help you overcome procrastination.

With our cleaning techniques and hacks, you'll soon find yourself effectively tackling your tasks.

1. Begin with Small Steps

Large cleaning tasks can be intimidating, often leading to procrastination. Try the 10-minute rule — focus on just a small segment of time.

Erin Zanelli, co-owner of an eco-friendly cleaning service, suggests, 'When tasks feel overwhelming, it's easy to avoid them. Concentrating on a short, manageable timeframe reduces procrastination and builds momentum.

'Set a timer for 10 minutes and tackle a specific area like a kitchen counter or dresser top. Once the time is up, decide if you want to keep going or take a break. Completing even small tasks gives a sense of achievement, which can motivate you to continue.'

Zanelli recommends using Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Peppermint Soap, stating, 'It's a versatile, eco-friendly cleaner effective for various surfaces, and the peppermint aroma adds a refreshing touch to your cleaning routine.'

Karina Toner, operations manager at another cleaning company, also finds setting a timer helpful for breaking down tasks. She notes, 'Don't worry if you keep going after the timer ends. The goal is to start, not to aim for perfection.'

Toner suggests the Mr. Clean Original Magic Eraser from Target for quick surface clean-ups.

Another approach is the 'try for five' method, which encourages balancing self-care with productivity.

For a quick win, start your laundry. Want a pleasant scent? Try mango-scented detergent. It combines fiery ginger with sweet mango, keeping whites bright and colors vibrant.

If you're giving your bathroom a quick refresh, try this spearmint-scented cleaner that eliminates 99.9% of bacteria. It's effective on sinks, tubs, and tiles, utilizing the power of citric acid.

Cleaning countertops is a favorite quick task among our experts, and this all-purpose cleaner is perfect for the job. Its biodegradable formula tackles grease and grime while leaving a delightful pink grapefruit scent.

2. Focus on One Room at a Time

Switching between rooms can scatter your focus. Concentrating on one space at a time allows you to see progress more clearly.

Toner advises, 'Cleaning multiple areas at once can be disorienting and hinder you from completing tasks. By focusing on one room, you'll see results faster, which motivates you to continue.

'Pick a room to start with — ideally the one that requires the most attention. Begin by decluttering and removing items that belong elsewhere. Clean in a systematic manner: dust, wipe, then vacuum. After finishing, take a break before moving to the next room.'

Toner also suggests keeping a cleaning caddy handy to avoid unnecessary trips for supplies!

3. Find an Accountability Partner

Cleaning alone can lead to procrastination. Having someone to hold you accountable can keep you on track, a method known as body doubling.

Zanelli explains, 'Incorporating accountability through a scheduled plan or a partner can enhance motivation and help combat the urge to procrastinate.

'Schedule a dedicated cleaning session and treat it as essential. Connect with a friend or family member — even virtually — to clean together. Sharing before-and-after photos can amplify your sense of accomplishment.'

4. Implement the One-Touch Rule

Constantly relocating items doesn't resolve messes. The one-touch rule can enhance efficiency. Zanelli states, 'Handling an item multiple times wastes time and energy. This principle encourages efficiency and minimizes clutter.

'Commit to dealing with each item just once. Decide its next step — whether to put it away, donate it, or discard it. Apply this rule in busy areas like entryways or home offices, and you'll quickly notice the difference.'

5. Use Quality Products

Using inadequate cleaning supplies can make chores feel tedious and less effective. Investing in essential products can streamline your process and add enjoyment to mundane tasks.

Steven Ip, owner of a cleaning service, shares, 'New cleaning products can provide an extra boost. Whether it's an advanced robot vacuum or a simple yet effective scrubbing brush, quality tools make a significant difference. Personally, I love Sprayway Fresh Scent Glass Cleaner from Walmart, as it works on various surfaces and simplifies cleaning.'

6. Set Up Reward Systems

Housework can feel like a thankless chore, which makes it easy to procrastinate. Establishing a reward system can create something to anticipate.

Ben Soreff, a professional organizer, explains, 'When tasks feel unappealing, people tend to delay them. A solution is 'temptation bundling' — combining something you need to do with a favorite activity. For example, you might dislike getting a flu shot, but enjoy the treat of ice cream afterward. The rewards vary for everyone, but focusing on the positive outcome makes the task less daunting.'

Toner adds, 'Rewards can transform cleaning from a tedious obligation into a more enjoyable experience. Knowing there's a treat awaiting you increases motivation and lessens resistance to starting tasks. Plus, rewarding yourself fosters positive reinforcement, encouraging you to tackle cleaning more willingly in the future.'

'To implement this, set a clear goal and decide on a reward upon completion. This could be a small treat like a piece of chocolate or a cup of tea, or a larger reward like watching your favorite show. Gradually increase your cleaning goals for greater challenges before treating yourself.'

Toner suggests an Amazon Basics Small Dry Erase Whiteboard to track your cleaning tasks, progress, and rewards. Consider exploring ways to make decluttering enjoyable or browse a collection of effective decluttering methods.

In summary, these six expert tips can help you conquer procrastination and manage clutter. Cleaning doesn't have to be a chore. By breaking tasks into smaller sections, staying accountable, and applying the right strategies, you can turn procrastination into productivity.